Suffolk Reporter

The William Floyd Colonials varsity football team is set to compete for their 15th Suffolk County Championship. After a decisive 35-14 victory over Sachem North in the Section XI semifinal, the team, led by head coach Paul Longo, will face Ward Melville on November 23 at Stony Brook University’s Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium.

In the semifinal match, Ja’Quan Thomas achieved an impressive performance with 232 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback AJ Cannet contributed with 135 passing yards and two touchdown passes to Jack Molini and Joshua Jordan. Defensively, Aaron Fisher and Jayden Johnson each recorded nine tackles, including three for losses and two sacks respectively. Kris Watkins and Aisays Wallace added interceptions to secure the win.

The upcoming championship game presents an opportunity for the Colonials to avenge their only loss this season against Ward Melville—a close 22-21 defeat that was decided in the final moments when Ward Melville thwarted a two-point conversion attempt.

Admission for this playoff round requires a fee of $9.40 per ticket ($8 plus a $1.40 service fee), while children under 12 can attend for free. Tickets are available online or via QR codes at the stadium gate as Section XI does not accept cash or checks.

The Colonials boast a history of success with previous Suffolk County titles won in years including 2001 through 2023, alongside five Long Island Championships between 2005 and 2012.

In prior playoff action, the Colonials defeated Sachem East in the quarterfinals with a commanding score of 43-22. In that game, Ja’Quan Thomas scored six touchdowns and executed a two-point conversion. Quarterback A.J. Cannet completed nine out of ten passes totaling 75 yards while Zamari Wilkins led defensively with ten tackles (four for losses) and three sacks.

As they advance towards another potential title, Coach Longo commended his team’s effort: "Congratulations to head coach Paul Longo, his coaching staff and the student-athletes on the victory." The quest continues as they prepare for Saturday's championship game against Ward Melville.